Montecristi By Chivas

Enjoy a fun-filled bus ride during this transfer via Chivas Bus to the sites and shops of picturesque Montecristi. The brightly-painted Chivas Bus was the most important means of transportation used by the local populace. They crisscrossed the country,offering reasonably-priced transportation between the towns along the coast and interior sections of Ecuador. Most will know a Chivas because of the small ceramic models sold in craft stores that are typically depicted overflowing with produce, suitcases and the odd basket of chickens tied to the top.

Today, a local band will ride atop one of the buses as you set off in a convoy for the short, 30-minute ride to fascinating Montecristi, home of the famous Panama hat. This beautiful little town is indeed the highlight of the tour, and still retains the atmosphere and faded elegance of its Spanish heritage. At Montecristi's central square, visit a Toquilla Hat workshop to learn about the hat making process, then we will visit many artisan stalls selling straw baskets, jewelry, colorful handicrafts and Panama hats.